Taiwan's newly appointed premier Jiang Yi-huah is reshuffling members of the Executive Yuan (Cabinet) and has named China Airlines chairman Chang Chia-juch to head the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) succeeding departing economic minister Shih Yen-shiang, according to a statement issued by the Executive Yuan.
Meanwhile, minister without portfolio Kuan Chung-ming will take the helm of the Council for Economic Planning and Development (CEPD), replacing incumbent minister Yiin Chii-ming.
The current vice premier Jiang was appointed by President Ma Ying-jeon to serve as new premier, and the new administration under Jiang is set to be sworn in on February 18 after the Lunar New Year holidays.
Departing premier Sean Chen offered his resignation for health and family reasons.
The ongoing policy pushing for an adjustment of Taiwan's industrial structure will remain unchanged and the implementation of the investment gains tax rules will also proceed as scheduled, Chen said at a press conference while announcing his resignation.
Jiang, 52, received a doctorate degree in political science from Yale University and served as the interior minister during 2009-2012 prior to taking the vice premiership post.
Incumbent transportation minister Mao Chi-kuo will be promoted to serve as vice premier, said the Presidential Office. Meanwhile, vice transportation minister Yeh Kuang-shih will take up the post left by Mao, the Cabinet has announced.
Outgoing premier Chen (right) accompanied by newly appointed premier Jiang
